Ambrosia Creamy Fruit Salad (Printable)

Creamy blend of pineapple, citrus fruits, marshmallows, coconut, and whipped topping chilled to perfection.

# What Goes In:

→ Fruits

01 - 1 can (15 oz) pineapple chunks, drained
02 - 1 can (15 oz) mandarin oranges, drained
03 - 1 cup seedless red grapes, halved
04 - 1 cup maraschino cherries, halved and patted dry (optional)

→ Creamy Base

05 - 1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
06 - 1 cup whipped topping (e.g., Cool Whip)

→ Mix-Ins

07 - 1½ cups mini marshmallows
08 - 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
09 - ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

# How to Make It:

01 - In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained pineapple, mandarin oranges, grapes, and cherries if using.
02 - Add the mini marshmallows, shredded coconut, and nuts if using.
03 - Gently fold in the sour cream and whipped topping until all ingredients are evenly coated.
04 - Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld.
05 - Stir gently before serving. Serve chilled.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • It's effortless enough for a weeknight craving but feels special enough to bring to any gathering.
  • The texture play between fluffy marshmallows, chewy fruit, and creamy base keeps each spoonful interesting.
  • You can make it hours ahead and let it sit in the fridge, which honestly makes the flavors meld into something even better.
02 -
  • Never add fresh bananas or apples more than fifteen minutes before serving, or they'll oxidize and turn brown no matter what you do. If you want fresh fruit, add it just as your guests arrive.
  • The sour cream and whipped topping need to be folded in gently; overworking them breaks down the air in the whipped topping and turns your beautiful fluffy salad dense and gluey.
03 -
  • Chill your bowl and spoon before assembling if you have time; cold tools keep the cream fluffy and prevent the marshmallows from softening too quickly.
  • Taste as you go when adding nuts; some people are sensitive to the texture, so you can always offer them on the side for guests to add themselves.
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